Sustainable Cruising Achieves Milestone In The Caribbean

Posted onAuthorChris Owen

  • Regional LNG First: Carnival Corporation introduced the first-ever Western Caribbean LNG fueling operation in Roatán, Honduras, using a mobile bunkering solution on the Carnival Jubilee.
  • Environmental Benefits: LNG cuts direct carbon emissions by up to 20% and virtually eliminates sulfur oxides and particulate matter, aiding the net zero goal of the company by 2050.
  • Award-Winning Sustainability: The Isla Tropicale beach holds the Honduras Blue Flag Award, earning a rare five-star rating for excellence in water quality and environmental management.
  • Economic Impact: The $93 million destination investment has brought 9 million visitors to Roatán, generating $750 million for the local economy and creating 1,300 jobs

Carnival Corporation has achieved a historic milestone by introducing the cruise industry’s first Liquefied Natural Gas bunkering operation to Latin America and the Western Caribbean. Through close collaboration with government leaders and local partners, the company successfully refueled the Carnival Jubilee at Isla Tropicale in Roatán, Honduras, using an innovative mobile fueling solution. This accomplishment positions Roatán as a highly strategic hub for maritime energy, enabling ships to refuel with minimal route disruption.

cruise ships in city bay
Photo by Diego F. Parra on Pexels.com

The initiative is a significant component of the decarbonization strategy of Carnival Corporation, which aims for net zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050. As a lower-emission fuel, LNG cuts direct carbon emissions by up to 20% while nearly eliminating sulfur oxides, nitrogen oxides, and particulate matter. The company currently leads the market with 11 LNG-capable ships and plans to add seven more by 2033.

This advancement highlights a deep commitment to environmental stewardship and economic development. The beach at Isla Tropicale has secured the Honduras Blue Flag Award multiple times, recognizing its exceptional standards in sustainability, water quality, and eco-friendly tourism. Furthermore, the $93 million investment by Carnival Corporation since 2009 has welcomed nearly 9 million visitors, generated $750 million in local economic impact, and supported over 1,300 local jobs.